Black Athletes in the Spotlight: HBCU Sports & Local Highlights
Ayo Davis is proof that HBCU excellence reaches every corner of the worldโeven the magic kingdom of Disney. As President of Disney Branded Television (DBT), Davis is shaping the stories that inspire the next generation, and she proudly brings the lessons learned at Dillard University with her every step of the way.
For Davis, Dillard was more than just a collegeโit was a foundation. โMy time at Dillard University instilled in me the importance of community, accountability, self-belief and belonging,โ she shared with Disney.com. โThat foundation shows up in how I lead today. I aim to build a workplace where people feel seen, supported and empowered to take risks and grow.โ
Davisโ journey at Disney spans over 20 years, starting in development and casting at ABC before moving into leadership roles across Disney+. Now, as the head of Disney Branded Television, she oversees beloved kidsโ content including Marvelโs Spidey and His Amazing Friends, Percy Jackson and the Olympians, ZOMBIES, and Descendants.
Her connection to Disney goes deeper than her impressive resume. Growing up in Orange County, California, Davis was enchanted by the magic of Disney parks and films. Today, she helps deliver that same magic to children around the worldโincluding her own daughter.
But Davis never forgets where it all began. She recently returned to her alma mater to deliver the 2024 commencement address at Dillard, a moment she described as humbling and full-circle. โIt was a full-circle moment that reminded me of the transformative power of HBCUs,โ Davis said.
She is also a vocal champion of Disneyโs ongoing commitment to HBCUs. โDisneyโs commitment to HBCUs is deeply personal to me,โ she explained. โBy investing in these institutions and their students, weโre not only nurturing future leaders, weโre honoring the legacy of excellence that HBCUs represent.โ
For current HBCU students dreaming of careers at Disney, Davis offers heartfelt advice: โItโs okay to not have it all figured out right now. Stay curious, be open to growth, and show up as your full self. Thereโs no single path to success, but if you stay true to who you are, youโll be ready when that door opens.โ
From Dillard to Disney, Ayo Davis is showing the world exactly how far HBCU brilliance can go.
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